The victim had blood pouring from his head after the brutal attack. The man is in a critical condition with injuries which could be fatal.

In an appeal to the public, officers said that they believe the victim was beaten up by a group of young males.

The victim was reportedly struck over the head before the gang fled leaving the victim lying unconscious in the street.

Police have since arrested five boys, aged 12, 14, 14, 15 and 17, and one man, aged 32, on suspicion of assault and remain in custody for questioning.

Det Chief Insp Andrew Cunliffe said: "This is a serious attack which has left a man with potentially fatal or life-changing injuries.

"We know that an incident occurred on nearby Bluestone Road and this has continued on to Chinley Avenue, where the attack itself took place. We now have people in custody in relation to this assault, but that should not prevent witnesses coming forward and telling us what they saw.

"I have placed extra patrols in the area and we have a dedicated team of detectives working on this investigation, hopefully with the help of the community.

"Any information could be vital to the investigation and if you believe you saw any of the build-up to the attack, either on Bluestone Road or Chinley Avenue, or the attack itself, then please contact police as a matter of urgency."

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting incident number 150417/2054 or the independent charity Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.